What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
abrasion
Example
The rocks were smoothed by abrasion from the river's current. [abrasion: noun]
Example
She suffered an abrasion on her knee after falling off her bike. [abrasion: noun]
erosion
Example
The Grand Canyon was formed by erosion over millions of years. [erosion: noun]
Example
The erosion of trust between the two countries led to strained relations. [erosion: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Erosion is more commonly used than abrasion in everyday language. Erosion is a term that is widely used in scientific and environmental contexts, while abrasion is more specific and often used in medical or mechanical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between abrasion and erosion?
Both abrasion and erosion are formal terms that are commonly used in scientific, medical, and technical contexts.
